Ganduje blames lack of ideology for rising political defections

By Umar Idris Shuaibu

Former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has attributed the increasing wave of political defections in Nigeria to the absence of strong ideological foundations within the country’s political parties.

Ganduje made the observation on Wednesday while speaking at the public presentation of Nigeria’s Journey to Democratic Rule, a book authored by the Abuja Bureau Chief of New Telegraph, Onyekachi Eze-Odezulu, in Abuja.

The former Kano State governor said the lack of clearly defined political philosophies had weakened Nigeria’s party system, leading politicians to switch parties based on personal interests rather than principles.

According to him, political parties should be distinguished by their philosophies, programmes and policy directions, stressing that ideology remains the bedrock of any vibrant democratic system.

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“Political parties are expected to be driven by clear philosophies, programmes and policy directions that distinguish one from another. Unfortunately, the absence of strong ideological foundations has weakened party politics, encouraged defections based on personal interests rather than principles, and made it more difficult for citizens to identify clear policy alternatives,” Ganduje said.

He called for stronger internal democracy within political parties, arguing that issue-based politics and adherence to democratic principles would strengthen Nigeria’s democracy and restore public confidence in the electoral process.

Speaking further, Ganduje described the book as a significant contribution to documenting Nigeria’s democratic journey, noting that preserving the nation’s political history was essential for future generations.

He stressed that democracy extends beyond the conduct of elections, emphasizing that it thrives on the rule of law, constitutionalism, credible electoral institutions and political parties that uphold internal democracy.

“Democracy is much more than the conduct of elections every four years. It is built on enduring principles such as the rule of law, respect for constitutional order, an independent and credible electoral management body, vibrant political parties that practise internal democracy, and elections that are free, fair and credible,” he stated.

Ganduje expressed optimism about the future of Nigeria’s democracy, insisting that democratic governance had come to stay.

He urged political leaders, institutions and citizens to remain committed to strengthening democratic values, promoting accountability and upholding the rule of law to ensure the country’s continued democratic growth.